Fire safety tips

In a typical home fire, smoke, heat and toxic gases build up rapidly. When the smoke detector sounds, get out of the building immediately before your escape route is blocked. To survive a fire: install and maintain smoke detectors and practice an escape plan.

Here are some safety tips:

• Install smoke detectors on every level and outside each sleeping area.
• Test them monthly.
• Replace them every ten years or as needed.
• Never disable your detector.

• Put a lid on a grease fire to smother it then turn off the heat. Baking soda will also work.
• Wear tight-fitting sleeves when cooking. Loose sleeves easily catch fire.
• Never throw water on a grease fire. Water will only spread the fire around.
• Never move a burning pan. You can too easily ignite your clothes or spill the fire onto someone or something else.
• Stand by your pan! Never leave cooking unattended.

• Purchase child-resistant lighters.
• Keep all matches and lighters out of reach and sight of children. A high, locked cabinet is recommended.
• Teach children that matches and lighters are not toys, they are tools for grownups.
• Teach young children to tell a grown-up when they see matches or lighters Iaying around.
• Never give a lighter to a child as a toy.

• Put candle holders on a sturdy, uncluttered surface.
• Light candles carefully. Keep your hair and any loose clothing away from the flame.
• Don't burn a candle all the way down — put it out before it gets too close to the holder or container.
• Never use a candle if oxygen is used in the home.
• During a power outage, have flashlights and battery-powered lighting ready to use. Never use candles.